Where I live there are two nursing programs to choose from, an ADN or BSN.
ADN Pros:
2 year degree
Work in the field sooner
Cheaper
Allegedly the hospitals prefer nurses out of this program because their instructors are more active in the field.
ADN Cons:
Lottery waiting list is up to 2 years
My remaining prerequisites are hard to get into
BSN Pros:
I plan on pursuing my BSN and beyond anyway (goal is NP)
Program is easier to get into, no waiting list, just application process.
My remaining prerequesites are easier to get into
BSN Cons:
4 times the cost
Delay getting into the field (+1 year)
Reputation is the professors are more "book smart", resulting in less hands-on nurses.
I'm currently lined up for the ADN program, however I'm very frustrated because I only have 4 prerequisites left but they're big ones, and even though I was on the third day for early registration, due to a counselor oversight I couldn't register till day 4 and by then the classes were all waitlisted. I still need A&P 1 & 2, Chemistry and Microbiology. Due to this delay, I cannot even apply for 18 months now, and that's IF I can get in two of the classes in the Spring semester. I'm taking extra classes right now to keep building credits and move up the early registration list.
I'm almost considering paying more to go to the local university for the BSN, which may be a 3 year program, I may get into it a year or two sooner, and ultimately will it matter where my degree is from if I can prove myself a great nurse?
